Here is a beautiful Pilgrim Century iron-hilted Broadsword. This sword was once part of the famous William H. Guthman Americana collection and was purchased privately from him before his death. Mr. Guthman said to have purchased this sword directly from a descendant of one of one of the original Plymouth families who resided in Connecticut and this sword may have traveled over on the Mayflower.
The sword is an untouched attic find in exceptional condition. These types are generally considered considered to be manufactured in Germany, but this one is most probably of early English manufacture. It is not as refined as the German examples. It is assembled with the same type of forge welding, identical lapping and same proportions as English broadswords of the period. The octagonal carved wood grip is also an English trait appearing on swords of this early period.
Our sword has an exceptionally large shell guard that covers the entire hand, re-curved quillons and an inner thumb ring. The original octagonal wood grip still maintains its original Turk’s head ferrules. It is topped off by a crude, bulbous, urn shaped pommel. Grip has normal age shrinkage, some age cracks and minor insect damage. Hilt is loose. This sword was never apart, cleaned or violated in any way! The wide, double edged blade bears a Toledo blade smith’s stamps on its ricasso, both sides . Its central fuller is stamped with the religious Latin motto “IN DOMINI” (in god) on both sides. Blade is nearly perfect without pitting and still has a good edge. The sword, overall has a great age patina, all metal parts and the wood.. Untouched and un-cleaned deep, deep age brown. Similar swords of this early period can be seen on display at Pilgrim Hall in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Over length is about 35 ½”.
Price is firm.

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